"I envision Bushkill Drive as the next major economic development in the city," Panto said.

City council last week approved a resolution to apply for a $250,000 Pennsylvania Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program grant for the design and construction of pedestrian bridge linking the Simon Silk Mill and the arts trail.

Officials said they would apply unused money from other grants as matching dollars for the state grant.

The bridge may cost more than $250,000, according to city administrator Glenn Steckman. Panto said the city will seek additional funding outside local tax dollars to finish the job.

"If the bridge costs more than the grant, I want to make sure that we do not have to pay for it down the road," said Councilwoman Elinor Warner.

Council also voted to apply for a $50,000 grant to continue sprucing up downtown building facades.

Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development funds will help businesses pay for sign upgrades and facade improvements.

The Easton Main Street Initiative has spearheaded the project since 2006, and 51 properties have received grant money in that time. The grant requires a one-to-one dollar match from recipients who qualify.

The combined state funds and private investment money total nearly $400,000 in improvements in the last eight years, according to Easton Main Street Initiative manager Kim Kmetz.

The program encourages the rehabilitation of buildings in the central business district.

"These improvements raise the bar for everyone. People aren't comfortable walking by buildings that aren't well kept," Kmetz said. "We hope that businesses see the new paint on their neighbors' buildings and step up to keep their own properties appealing."

Each applicant is limited to receive $5,000 toward improvements. New paint jobs, replacing rotting wood or brickwork are typical repairs seen in the program.

The Easton Historic District Commission must approve all facade and sign improvements. A volunteer committee will then process applications on a first-come-first-served basis as long as the improvements are in line with certain design criteria.

Fifteen applicants are on the waiting list.

Kmetz said the city is revamping the application guidelines. She asked interested applicants to wait until the city releases news of the grant's approval before they apply to the program.

"This has been very successful for Main Street and a benefit to the city and its property owners," Kmetz said.

Resolutions to approve both grants were unanimous with all members present.